Description

This Marry Me Salmon recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Flaky salmon fillets are pan-seared to perfection and then simmered in a luscious, creamy sauce featuring sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and fresh herbs. This easy yet elegant dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner. The flavors are so irresistible, they might just lead to a proposal!

Ingredients

4 salmon fillets, about 6 ounces each
2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped
1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
1 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
1/4 cup fresh oregano leaves, chopped
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional: Red pepper flakes, for heat
Optional: Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Place salmon fillets skin-side down (if using skin-on fillets) in the hot skillet. Sear for 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden brown. If using skinless fillets, sear for 3-4 minutes per side.
Flip the salmon and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until almost cooked through. Remove salmon from the pan and set aside.
Add minced garlic to the same skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and white wine to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the wine to reduce slightly.
Stir in the heavy cream and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
Add the chopped basil, oregano, and optional red pepper flakes to the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Gently place the salmon fillets back into the sauce. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Spoon the sauce over the salmon as it cooks.
Serve hot with your choice of sides. Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon wedges.

Notes

Variations: For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of harissa to the sauce. You can also include other vegetables, such as spinach or kale, added in the last few minutes of cooking.
Tips: Ensure your pan is hot before adding the salmon for the best sear. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
Allergies & Intolerances: This recipe contains dairy. For a dairy-free version, consider using a plant-based cream alternative. Check all labels to avoid any allergy triggers.
Taste Adjustments: Adjust the amount of garlic and herbs to your taste. Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of sugar, if necessary, to balance the flavors.
Make Ahead: The sauce can be made 1-2 days ahead of time, stored in the fridge. Prepare all other ingredients in advance for faster cooking times.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT20M
Category: Main Course, Seafood
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired, Mediterranean

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
Calories: 550
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 500mg
Fat: 40g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0.5g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 150mg

Keywords: marry me salmon, salmon recipe, creamy salmon, sun-dried tomato salmon, easy salmon recipe, romantic dinner, seafood recipe, quick dinner, stovetop recipe, herb salmon, special occasion meal.